Rapturous ovations for the top quality show ‘The Weir’ after sensational New Inn performance

Writer Conor McPherson who wrote the drama The Weir is Dublin-born, but one could hardly tell from this play, such was the nuanced sensitivity to depicting country life, country thoughts and country ways.

For those of us born and raised in the countryside in Ireland, one would have felt very comfortable basking in The Black
Fort Players’ dramatic representation of The Weir.

The play (November 1st to the 3rd ), was staged in New Inn Community Centre and drew crowds from all across Tipperary.

Set in a rural pub in Leitrim in the mid-1990s, this play consists of a small cast of five characters; three locals, a pub-owner and a Dublin woman in search of a new life in Leitrim.

Ardmayle man Liam Ó Maoldhomhnaigh is a name known to many of those who move in theatrical circles. He played the central role of Jack, a mechanic with a gift for storytelling and a deeply complex emotional life.

Liam, under the direction of producer Tom FitzGerald, brought Jack to life and drawing the crowd in, evoked in the audience huge enjoyment for this clever ‘rough diamond’ and sympathy for him also.

Ó Maoldhomhnaigh’s experience, talent and understanding of the role culminated in this being one of his finest performances to date.

Pub-owner Brendan was played by Karl McHugh, whose silky tones and charming presence on stage gave a very believable authenticity to the character. Karl’s vast experience on stage ensured that the audience was fully invested in his life and
prospects.

In every local, there is a character who people regard as a “craythur”, and Jim is the man in this play (played by Denis Browne). Denis managed to capture the essence of this character so well, with excellent, well-timed delivery of lines.

Kieran Heaney played Finbar, the man about town, who incensed the others with his cockiness and confidence- traits not often admired in rural Ireland! Kieran’s slick, commanding delivery of his part had us wanting to chide this loveable rogue.

Finally, Katy Ryan played the part of Dublin woman Valerie elegantly and with a soft easiness that drew the viewer in and kept our attention throughout.

Five actors. All wonderful, established people who have graced the stage innumerable times. Yet, the beauty in this drama was the sum of their parts.

Producer Tom FitzGerald has years of experience directing but his casting in this particular play was supreme. There was an evident trust between him and his cast.

The curtains never closed. There was no interval. All of the cast was on the stage for ninety-five percent of the time. There was nowhere to hide if you were not up to the task.

Not a problem for this troupe. The appreciation of the audience was evidenced by the spontaneous standing ovation on the night this reviewer attended.

And behind every great man…Caitlín FitzGerald is to be commended for her own significant contribution to this most successful production.

Other things set this production group apart, on this, the inaugural production for The Black Fort Players. Notably, no radio mics were used.

This seemed to give a freedom to those on stage and their projection was excellent. The attention to detail
on the set was of an impeccable standard.

The simple and easy booking system with Trish, the wonderful front of house team on arrival, Christy warmly escorting us to our seats, the cupán tae afterwards; all lovely and welcome touches.

Overall, this play was a joy to watch, with a fine balance of drama and humour. Well done to all involved.